Understanding DD Form 5960: A Comprehensive Guide
DD Form 5960 is a key document used by military personnel to apply for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and to establish eligibility for other housing benefits. This form is crucial for service members who are married, have dependents, or are living in government housing. The accurate completion of DD Form 5960 ensures that service members receive the appropriate housing allowances they are entitled to, which can significantly impact their financial well-being.
What is DD Form 5960?
DD Form 5960, also known as the "Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Application/Termination," is utilized by members of the United States Armed Forces to report changes in their housing status and request BAH. This form is particularly relevant for service members who may find themselves in different living situations due to deployment, reassignment, or changes in family status.
Why is DD Form 5960 Important?
The importance of DD Form 5960 cannot be overstated. Here are several critical reasons why this form is essential for military personnel:
- Financial Stability: BAH constitutes a significant part of a service member's income, especially for those with families, making this form vital for financial planning.
- Eligibility Verification: The form helps in verifying the eligibility of service members for housing allowances based on their current living situation.
- Change of Status: Any changes in marital status, dependents, or living arrangements must be reported using this form to ensure accurate allowance calculations.
Who Needs to Fill Out DD Form 5960?
Several categories of service members may need to complete DD Form 5960:
- Married Service Members: Those who are married and living off-base must submit this form to receive BAH.
- Single Parents: Service members who are single parents and have dependents also need to complete this form for housing benefits.
- Members with Dependents: Any service member with legal dependents must file this form to secure the proper allowances.
- Personnel Changing Duty Stations: When moving to a new duty station, service members must fill out DD Form 5960 to update their housing status.
How to Complete DD Form 5960
Completing DD Form 5960 accurately is essential for ensuring that the correct housing allowances are processed. Here’s a step-by-step guide to filling out the form:
Step 1: Obtain the Form
DD Form 5960 can be obtained online from the official Department of Defense (DoD) forms repository or through your unit's administrative office.
Step 2: Fill in Personal Information
The first section of the form requires the service member's personal information, including:
- Full name
- Social Security number
- Duty station
- Unit of assignment
Step 3: Indicate Housing Status
In this section, service members must specify whether they are living in government housing or off-base. If living off-base, details regarding the rental or living arrangement must be provided.
Step 4: Report Marital Status
Service members must accurately report their marital status and provide information about any dependents. This includes:
- Spouse’s name
- Number of dependents
- Dependent’s relationship to the service member
Step 5: Sign and Date the Form
After completing the necessary sections, the service member must sign and date the form. This signature verifies that the information provided is accurate and complete.
Where to Submit DD Form 5960
After completing DD Form 5960, service members must submit it to their respective personnel office or the finance office at their duty station. It is advisable to keep a copy of the submitted form for personal records.
Common Issues and Solutions
While filling out DD Form 5960, service members may encounter various issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Incomplete Information
One of the most common mistakes is providing incomplete or inaccurate information. To avoid this, double-check all entries before submitting the form.
Delayed Processing
If there is a delay in processing, service members should follow up with the appropriate office. Keeping a copy of the submission receipt can help in tracking the status.
Changes After Submission
If a service member's housing status changes after the form has been submitted, they must inform their personnel office immediately and may need to submit a new DD Form 5960.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if I don't submit DD Form 5960?
Failure to submit DD Form 5960 can result in delays or loss of housing allowances, which can significantly affect a service member's financial situation.
How often do I need to submit this form?
Service members should submit DD Form 5960 whenever there is a change in their housing situation, marital status, or the number of dependents.
Can I submit DD Form 5960 electronically?
Many military installations now offer electronic submission options for DD Form 5960. It is advisable to check with your unit's administrative office for specific procedures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, DD Form 5960 is a vital document for military personnel seeking to manage their housing allowances effectively. Understanding how to complete and submit this form can lead to smoother transitions in housing situations and ensure that service members receive the financial support they need. By staying informed and proactive about their housing status, service members can significantly enhance their financial stability and overall quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DD Form 5960 used for?
DD Form 5960 is used to request a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for service members who are married or have dependents, allowing them to receive housing assistance based on their family situation.
Who is eligible to fill out DD Form 5960?
Active duty members of the Armed Forces, as well as certain reserve members with dependents, are eligible to complete DD Form 5960 to apply for BAH.
What documents are required to accompany DD Form 5960?
When submitting DD Form 5960, service members typically need to provide supporting documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates for dependents, and any other required documentation to verify eligibility.
How often must DD Form 5960 be updated?
DD Form 5960 must be updated whenever there is a change in the service member's dependent status, such as marriage, divorce, or the addition of a new child.
Where can I obtain DD Form 5960?
DD Form 5960 can be obtained from the official Department of Defense forms website, military personnel offices, or other authorized military resources.
